3Cut 1 layer as shown in diagram (template can be found under the Tips below). Freeze cut pieces uncovered 1 hour for easier frosting.

4Place uncut layer on plate; frost top and side. Place cutout circle on larger layer; frost. Arrange head and feet on circle; frost.

5Cut marshmallow in half. Moisten 1 half and dip in red sugar; join to head with frosting for turkey's wattle. Use other half of marshmallow for turkey's eye. Use candy corn for beak, claws and feathers. Store loosely covered.

Expert Tips

A bird in the freezer is worth two in the package! Bake and freeze two 9-inch rounds a week or two before Thanksgiving. A day or two before Thanksgiving, remove them from the freezer, cut, frost and decorate. You'll be thankful for all the time you'll save.

Create an attractive display by covering a tray or piece of sturdy cardboard with Thanksgiving theme wrapping paper. Then cover the tray with plastic food storage wrap. Stretch and secure with tape. Or cover cardboard with foil or cooking parchment paper.

Before frosting, brush off any crumbs from cake surfaces. Then create a “base” by spreading with a very thin coat of frosting. This prevents any cake crumbs from disturbing your perfectly frosted cake!